Grateful. It is with a grateful heart that I can say our team has safely reached it's destination...Port Au Prince, Haiti! From the moment we stepped off the plane, you could begin to see the devastation that the earthquake of 2010 left behind to a country that was already severely impoverished.
Surprised. While I expected to see devastation, I was not prepared for the severity of it. From the moment we walked off the plane, the impact of a 60% unemployment rate was clear. The number of men begging to help us with our bags, looking for a sense of purpose and something to do was astounding...and heart breaking.
Shocked. As we left the airport and headed to the guest house, my heart was heavy. The number of people on the streets was overwhelming. We had to travel slowly, because the roads were filled with so many potholes, rocks, water and garbage. Finally, we reached the Healing Haiti guesthouse...in the 'nice' part of town. Once there, we took a walking tour around our neighborhood. The level of devastation and poverty was so shocking, it is hard to put into words. Carefully, we walked...having to be mindful of every step.
Joyful. As we walked, we encountered more people than I could count. What stood out the most to me, though, were the children and the looks of pure joy on their faces! Despite all of the brokenness that seemed to surround me, I realized that not everything that appears to be broken is.
Blessed. Speaking on behalf of all of my team members...we all feel so blessed to be here and serve God by loving and serving His people. Blessed by all of the prayers you prayed for us as we prepared for this trip and for the prayers you will continue to pray throughout the week. Blessed by all of the donations you made in His name. Blessed...to have up you on this trip with us!
~Jessica
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